Save to Pinterest A whimsical and healthy appetizer featuring crisp vegetables arranged as a snowman, served with a creamy herb dip—perfect for festive gatherings and kids parties.
I love serving this snowman crudités at holiday parties because it delights both children and adults with its playful presentation and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 large cauliflower head (cut into florets), 1 large cucumber, 2 medium carrots (peeled), 1 small red bell pepper, 1 small yellow bell pepper, 6 cherry tomatoes, 1 black olive
- Dip: 200 g (7 oz) Greek yogurt or sour cream, 2 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp fresh chives or dill (finely chopped), 1 garlic clove (minced), Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables:
- Slice the cucumber into 1 cm rounds. Cut one carrot into sticks for snowman arms, and use a peeler to cut thin ribbons from the other carrot for the scarf. Slice bell peppers into small strips and pieces for the hat, buttons, and scarf accent. Slice the black olive into thin rounds for the eyes and mouth.
- Arrange the snowman:
- On a large platter, assemble three cauliflower florets in increasing size vertically to form the snowmans body. Use cucumber rounds for the snow at the base. Add carrot sticks for arms, and carrot ribbons for the scarf around the neck. Use black olive slices for eyes and mouth, a small carrot piece for the nose, and bell pepper strips to create a hat and buttons. Place cherry tomatoes and remaining vegetables around the snowman as extra crudités.
- Prepare the dip:
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, chives or dill, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve:
- Place the dip in a small bowl next to or within the platter for dipping.
Save to Pinterest This recipe always brings smiles to family gatherings, especially when the kids help assemble the snowman.
Variations
Add other vegetables such as radishes, broccoli, or celery for more variety and color.
Vegan Option
Use plant-based yogurt and vegan mayonnaise to make the dip suitable for vegans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve immediately for best crispness; great as a festive appetizer or healthy snack.
Save to Pinterest This snowman appetizer adds festive charm and healthy flair to any party table.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the vegetables crisp?
Soak cut vegetables in ice water before assembling to maintain a fresh, crisp texture throughout serving.
- → What herbs work best in the dip?
Fresh chives or dill add a bright, mild flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy base.
- → Can I prepare the dip ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dip a few hours in advance and refrigerate to allow flavors to meld before serving.
- → Are there good vegan alternatives for the dip?
Use plant-based yogurt and vegan mayonnaise to keep the dip creamy and suitable for vegan diets.
- → What is the best way to arrange the snowman?
Place largest cauliflower florets at the bottom, stack smaller ones above, and use sliced veggies for features and accessories.